Thames Freeport - Britain's Trading Future

X X X X X X X [ 72 ] a major statement of intent. We are excited to be entering a new phase in our growth as an organisation, and will continue to explore opportunities to develop projects which can support the energy transition.” As south east England (including London) is the UK’s centre of electricity demand, the zero-emission project is located close to DP World London Gateway on the Thames Estuary, with planning consents and electrical connection capacity secured from National Grid. Once built, the project will be capable of discharging almost instantaneously, and will operate principally in the UK’s energy market, also providing reserve and ancillary services to National Grid. Such flexible and dynamic services are becoming increasingly important in the drive to net zero and ensuring electrical grid stability. InterGen is targeting construction to begin in 2023, with the Gateway project becoming operational in 2024/25. The position of the Gateway Battery project in the Thames Freeport area is very significant. In addition to the benefits provided InterGen has had a presence in the south east of the UK for over 20 years, with operations at its 800 MW Coryton plant commencing in 2001. Providing nearly 1 million local homes with power each year, the natural gas fired plant is one of four InterGen UK assets providing flexible, reliable generation to power homes and businesses. Located just 1km from the DP World London Gateway site, Coryton has a proud history of supporting the local community. InterGen’s apprenticeship programme has been running for several decades at the site, in partnership with local colleges, offering on-the-job training in a highly skilled environment. Coryton’s newest apprentice, Taylor Newell said: “I joined Coryton in September 2019. The benefits of the apprenticeship programme are endless and I highly recommend it. I have gained hands-on experience with engineers and technicians. I personally also benefited from gaining communication skills. The team has been very welcoming and I have learnt so much.” InterGen, believes that its best investment is in people. The company is committed to continuing to support the local area around the Thames Freeport site, with further highly skilled apprentice roles continuing to be offered annually, plus a programme of community support for charities, and a commitment to contract with local businesses, where possible. InterGen supporting the next generation I N T E R G E N As south east England (including London) is the UK’s centre of electricity demand, the zero-emission project is located close to DP World London Gateway on the Thames Estuary, with planning consents and electrical connection capacity secured from National Grid InterGen has a proud history of apprenticeships in the region